Your primary care doctor can be a beneficial resource for treating a wide range of health conditions. Sometimes, you may have severe symptoms that fail to respond to conventional treatments and can only be treated by a specialist. A neurologist specializes in treating nervous system disorders that can create havoc throughout your body. Here are the top three body symptoms to look for that can signal when to see a neurologist.
Chronic Headache Pain
Many people experience headaches, but you may need to see a neurologist if your symptoms happen more frequently and persist over time. Migraines can include debilitating symptoms like vomiting, dizziness and muscle weakness that may be best treated by a neurological specialist. There may be serious underlying conditions that are causing your symptoms that may only be identified through specialized testing.
Other indicators signaling when to see a neurologist are taking pain medication on a daily basis and waking up each day with a headache. Seek prompt medical attention if you experience vision changes or seizures. Treatment for severe headaches may take months before you achieve full relief and may include options like medications and lifestyle changes.
Sleep Disorders
Sleep disorders can create numerous issues in your daily life. You can develop sleep disorders from stress, trauma or significant injuries that impact your daily life. This can affect your mental and emotional well-being and the relationships you have. Some sleep disorders can be terrifying and frustrating to find the right treatment for relief. Signs that it may be time to see a neurologist include sudden changes of behavior and the onset of disturbing nightmares.
Some individuals with sleep disorders can experience confusion, depression, anxiety and severe memory loss. These symptoms can cause disruptions in your ability to function with routine tasks. Common sleep disorders treated by neurologists often include narcolepsy, insomnia, restless leg syndrome and sleep apnea.
Involuntary Muscle Movement
If you are experiencing issues with involuntary muscle movement, it may be a signal you need to see a neurologist. Seizures and epilepsy are common chronic neurological disorders featuring involuntary jerking. Involuntary muscle movements can also be caused by sudden trauma from and accidents or brain and spinal cord injuries.
Numbness and tingling in your limbs can be signs of a stroke or neuropathy. Other symptoms that can be treated better by a neurologist include clumsiness, blackouts and difficulty walking or maintaining your balance. If your mobility is severely affected or you are having suicidal thoughts or signs of a stroke, seek emergency treatment immediately. A neurologist will perform testing to determine the root cause of your issues to determine the best course of treatment. Effective treatment options for sleep disorders can include a combination of physical therapy, medications and lifestyle changes.
Comprehensive Neurologist Services
If you are experiencing symptoms that are failing to respond to conventional treatments, it may be time to see a neurologist. Without prompt treatment, your quality of life can be severely compromised for the rest of your life. Foothills Neurology provides customized treatment for a comprehensive range of neurological conditions in Scottsdale, Arizona. Call to schedule a consultation today.